UK University · Ranked #1
University of Oxford: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
University of Oxford, located in Oxford, England, is a selective UK university with an acceptance rate of about 15.3%. Ranked #1 in the UK in our dataset, it offers a realistic target for well-prepared applicants: strong-but-not-perfect profiles are regularly admitted, and a thoughtful application can meaningfully move the needle.
The University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, renowned for its tutorial-based teaching system and world-leading research across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
This guide breaks down University of Oxford's selectivity, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
University of Oxford admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 15.3%
- Home fees
- $11,500
- International fees
- $47,500
- Enrollment
- 12,510
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Oxford, England
How hard is it to get into University of Oxford?
University of Oxford's 15.3% acceptance rate makes it selective but realistically attainable for well-prepared students. Unlike the most elite schools, applicants who clearly meet the academic profile have a solid chance, and a strong application — coherent essays, relevant activities, a clear narrative — can be decisive rather than merely a tiebreaker.
For students at or above the school's academic profile, University of Oxford is a target rather than a reach. A focused, well-edited application can be the difference, so it is worth real effort here.
Academic profile of admitted students
As a UK university, University of Oxford does not use the SAT or US-style GPA. Admission is driven primarily by predicted and achieved grades in school-leaving qualifications (such as A-levels or the IB), subject-specific entry requirements for the chosen course, and — for many courses — an admissions test and/or interview. Applicants should research the exact grade requirements for their specific course rather than a single university-wide threshold.
University of Oxfordapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Early Action: Oct 15
- • Regular Decision: Jan 25
University of Oxford offers a non-binding Early Action deadline of Oct 15, with Regular Decision closing Jan 25. Early Action lets you submit early and receive a decision sooner without any obligation to enroll, so there is little downside to applying EA if your application is genuinely ready by Oct 15 — a rushed early application is worse than a strong regular one.
Whichever round you choose, give recommenders at least three to four weeks of notice and budget time for essay revisions — the strongest applications are rarely written in the final week before Jan 25.
Notable programs at University of Oxford
- Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) — one of the most popular majors nationally and a strong feeder to graduate and professional study.
- Medicine — a clinical pathway with prerequisite coursework and, in some cases, separate admission.
- Law — a strong pre-professional and graduate strength for this institution.
- English Literature — a flagship humanities strength here.
- Computer Science — a perennial high-demand field with competitive secondary admission at many schools.
University of Oxford is particularly known for Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE), Medicine, Law, English Literature, and Computer Science.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending University of Oxford
Tuition at University of Oxford depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £47,500 — a difference of about £36,000 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in Oxford, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.
What are your chances at University of Oxford?
Get a free AI-powered admission probability based on your GPA, test scores, and profile — plus essay feedback and a school strategy.
Calculate my chances free →No credit card. Official site: www.ox.ac.uk
University of Oxford: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Oxford?
- University of Oxford has an acceptance rate of 15.3%, which makes it selective. For students at or above the school's academic profile, University of Oxford is a target rather than a reach. A focused, well-edited application can be the difference, so it is worth real effort here.
- What is the application deadline for University of Oxford?
- University of Oxford's application deadlines: Early Action is Oct 15 (non-binding); Regular Decision is Jan 25. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is University of Oxford affordable for international students?
- University of Oxford is a UK university. Home (UK) students pay about £11,500 per year while international students pay roughly £47,500; budget for living costs in Oxford on top of tuition.
- How much does it cost to attend University of Oxford?
- Tuition at University of Oxford depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £47,500 — a difference of about £36,000 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in Oxford, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.